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Studies & Degrees in Molecular Sciences

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This branch of science deals specifically with the study of matter at a molecular level. It focuses on studying the characteristics and structure of atoms, molecules, molecular bonds and other particles. It can be useful in a wide variety of areas, from environmental to medical science. Those pursuing this study can be diagnostic molecular scientists, molecular biologists or nano-technicians.
 
All molecular science students will need to study at an accredited college or university, as these are the only institutions that provide a thorough education in this field. Students will need to earn a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in order to work, though many jobs will only hire candidates with a master’s or doctorate degree. This means students will be in study for molecular science anywhere from 3 to 10 years. There are also scientific institutes that specialize in molecular science and related fields. Most of these programs require added work experience and laboratory training.
 
There is no other institution where molecular science can be studied in full. Sometimes, workshops will be offered through a college relating to the field of molecular science, but these are usually for professionals, employees or students already studying this science. Some extremely basic courses are offered to the public by science institutes. None of these alternative study methods provides any certification or degrees.
 
Skills, Qualifications, and Prerequisites for Studies in Molecular Science
 
To study molecular science, candidates must attend a college or university to achieve a bachelor’s,  master’s or a doctorate. This means they must meet any admissions requirements to the higher education institution. If the student continues to pursue study at a master or doctorate level, they must possess a bachelor’s, and pass admission exams to higher programs.
 
This field of study requires years of education and should only be undertaken by motivated, dedicated students. A significantly high intelligence is essential for this study, due to the amount of scientific knowledge students are required to memorize. They should own a very analytical mind and a fascination with exploring, understanding, and solving problems at a molecular level.
 
Molecular scientists very often work independently, so candidates should be able to work long hours on their own without losing focus. They must pay high attention to detail and be able to take clear, accurate records of their work – meaning some excellent writing and language skills are also required.
 
Skills and Qualifications Acquired from Studies in Molecular Science
 
Molecular scientists will acquire a significant amount of knowledge and skills before working in their field of choice. Some essential expertise for a study in molecular science include:
  • Advanced chemistry, biology and physics.
  • Microbiology, biophysics and biochemistry.
  • Understanding of molecular systems and characteristics.
  • Understanding of molecular reactions and properties.
  • Ability to use scientific tools and techniques.
  • Laboratory and research skills.
  • Understanding, devising and completing molecular analyses.
  • Disease and viral characteristics at the molecular level.
Disciplines usually focus in areas like nanotechnology, engineering, biology, virology and diagnostic molecular science – in which case, additional classes in those focus areas must be added in with the major.
 
Careers for Studies in Molecular Science
 
A study in molecular science provides opportunities to a variety of careers, depending on other focuses of study. Molecular scientists work in medical research facilities, technological corporations, chemical plants and government science organizations. They may produce chemical products, evaluate genetic material, develop pharmaceuticals or research disease causes, preventions and cures. Some molecular scientists work in nanotechnology and other molecular technological developments while a few work as college professors.